The renowned British education system is globally acclaimed, not only for its academic excellence, but also for being at the forefront of educational research and methodology. Through the Globeducate British International Schools' outdoor learning programme, we equip our students with the tools they need to successfully tackle current and future challenges, both at school and beyond.

Our students have access to a unique outdoor learning programme called "The Journey", an innovative programme carefully designed by the Globeducate Education Department, which depending on the school is followed from Infant or Primary through to Year 8 (12 years old). Throughout the school year, students embark on challenging and enriching adventures that lead them to develop fundamental skills to face the challenges of tomorrow, with natural spaces such as classrooms. Get ready to explore, learn and grow to the fullest!

Continuing the educational journey in our British International Schools we deliver from Year 9 onwards the distinguished Duke of Edinburgh's International Programme. This programme gives young people the opportunity to discover themselves, overcome limitations and set and conquer their own challenges. Achievement at each stage of the programme is recognised and celebrated.

This programme is highly respected and valued at university level, as well as by companies and institutions. In addition, it enhances key soft skills such as leadership, problem solving, teamwork, solidarity and resilience, amongst others. We talked to the coordinator of the Duke of Edinburgh International Award at O Castro British International School, Mauro González:

Why is outdoor learning so beneficial?

People are social beings and we have always lived in communities. It is essential for young people to develop emotional skills that help us to connect with other people, to understand them and also to connect with nature. Learning in nature is key to development as it is based on experiences and "doing" and not so much on observing, as in the classroom. It also helps to awaken a spirit of adventure and challenge and develops a more global view of nature, resources and the importance of caring for the planet.

 

What is the purpose of the Duke of Edinburgh's International Award?

On the one hand, to encourage young people to participate in enriching experiences in the different areas of the programme, which will help develop their personalities. On the other hand, to give official recognition to those who have passed the programme, creating an internationally recognised community. The certification is based on the completion of four different sections, which the students have to complete over a certain period of time, from Physical recreation, Skills development, Community Service and Adventurous Expedition.

What is the expedition?

 It involves exposing students to an independent situation in nature, where they have to walk a route of about 15km per day, without the direct supervision of their counsellors. To do this, they are prepared over several weeks so that they can complete it successfully. Teamwork is essential in order to achieve the goal successfully.

What skills do students acquire with the Duke of Edinburgh?

The programme is designed to engage them in activities of interest to them and to live those experiences over an extended period of time. What we are looking for is a weekly commitment with the aim of fostering a connection to a cause, a habit of developing those talents and interests, rather than a one-off experience.

What types of programmes exist in the Duke of Edinburgh?

This unique and exclusive programme of self-improvement and self-discovery is divided into Bronze, Silver or Gold. Depending on your age, you must commit to the different sections for a set number of weeks. Bronze can be completed in a minimum of six months, Silver in six months, and Gold takes about a year and a half.

How do students prepare for this programme?

Each British International School has a particular provision for this: activities such as debate or drama or different types of sport, both individual and team, are usually present in all of them. Furthermore, since the last academic year 21-22, a project called "The Journey" has been implemented in all Globeducate British International Schools which aims to develop these skills and experiences in nature throughout all stages of education. From Early Years to Secondary, activities are based on "learning by doing" in nature, adapted to the age group, but with a backbone of values: Identity, community, nature and adventure.

How does the programme contribute to the development of life skills and preparation for university or working life?

Social skills and soft skills are increasingly valued when it comes to offering scholarships, jobs or university places. The Duke of Edinburgh's International Award certifies that the person has had a series of experiences that require individual work, teamwork and engagement with others, and that will shape the person in a way that benefits personality development. In addition, the people who have done it value the other members of the community very positively, because it creates a bond, a common link between them.

Could you give us some concrete examples of students who have gone through the programme?

It is our second year in O Castro but I have already seen the impact of the programme on many students. On the one hand, it has created a much more united group among the participants, when previously and due to COVID, friendships had been relegated to small groups. Many of the students have continued their volunteering and activities despite having completed the certification. On a personal level, I am proud that several letters of recommendation that I wrote for three participants based on their experiences at DOFE helped them to get scholarships and even a job last summer.